What is it?
Regent's Park is one of London's most popular open spaces, covering 410 acres in north-west London. Originally a hunting ground for Henry VIII, it remained a royals-only retreat long after it was formally designed by John Nash in 1811; only in 1845 did it open to the public as a spectacular shared space. The animal odours and noises of London Zoo fill the park's air. Various food and music festivals pitch up here over the summer and rowing boat hire, bandstands, beautiful rose gardens (with some 30,000 roses and 400 varieties), tennis courts, ice-cream stands and eateries (including the delightful Garden Café) complete the picture. Regent’s Park has several playgrounds, but the most interesting is at Hanover Gate where, in 2010, a timber treehouse area for older kids was built within a large sandpit next to the boating lake and existing playground.
Why go?
There are countless reasons to visit the rolling green landscape of Regent's Park. For one, it boasts London's largest sports area. And, over 120 species of bird can be seen there throughout the year, along with 5,000 varieties of tree and it is the home to London's only breeding population of hedgehogs.
Don't miss:
To see some great views of the city, why not brave the hike up to Primrose Hill? For generations it has been the point of inspiration for poets and artists - who knows, you might even leave with the beginnings of the world's next great work of art.
When to visit:
The pedestrian gates open from 5am and close at dusk each day.
Ticket info:
No tickets are needed to enter the park.
Time Out tip:
The park hosts various fun summer events - the Open Air Theatre being one of the best. The award-winning outside theatre gives its audiences the chance to enjoy a show under the stars. Grab a bite to eat from one of the nearby food stalls and enjoy a summer evening as the sun sets.
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